Bernard Hill, Beloved Titanic and Lord of the Rings Actor, Passes Away at 79

This morning, the entertainment world mourns the loss of esteemed actor Bernard Hill, who passed away at the age of 79. Hill, renowned for his roles in two of cinema’s greatest sagas, played the stoic Captain Edward Smith in the 1997 Oscar-winning film “Titanic” and the noble Theoden, King of Rohan, in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy directed by Sir Peter Jackson, told by Sky News.

His agent, Lou Coulson, confirmed that Hill died in the early hours of Sunday. Hill’s death comes just as the second series of the BBC drama “The Respondent,” in which he stars, is set to begin airing, via AP News.

Bernard Hill’s career was marked by a variety of significant roles both in film and television. Beyond his memorable performances in blockbuster films, he was also acclaimed for his work in the television series “Boys from the Black Stuff” and his role in the historical film “Gandhi,” starring Ben Kingsley.

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, paid tribute to Hill’s vast contributions to the screen, stating, “Bernard Hill blazed a trail across the screen, and his long-lasting career filled with iconic and remarkable roles is a testament to his incredible talent. From ‘Boys from the Blackstuff’ to ‘Wolf Hall,’ ‘The Responder,’ and many more, we feel truly honoured to have worked with Bernard at the BBC. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this sad time.”, Reported by BBC.

Fellow performer Barbara Dickson also expressed her sorrow on social media platform X: “It’s with great sadness that I note the death of Bernard Hill. We worked together in John Paul George Ringo and Bert, Willy Russell’s marvellous show 1974-1975. A really marvellous actor. It was a privilege to have crossed paths with him. RIP Benny.”

Bernard Hill was a native of Manchester, where he honed his acting skills at the Manchester Polytechnic School of Drama. His career began with a role as PC Cluff in the Granada series “Crown Court,” setting the stage for a distinguished acting journey that would endear him to audiences worldwide.

As the entertainment community and fans reflect on Hill’s storied career, his contributions to both the big and small screen are celebrated, leaving a legacy that will endure in the hearts of many.

It’s with great sadness that I note the death of Bernard Hill. We worked together in John Paul George Ringo and Bert, Willy Russell marvellous show 1974-1975. A really marvellous actor. It was a privilege to have crossed paths with him. RIP Benny x#bernardhill pic.twitter.com/UPVDCo3ut8

— Barbara Dickson (@BarbaraDickson) May 5, 2024

"Bernard Hill blazed a trail across the screen, and his long-lasting career filled with iconic and remarkable roles is a testament to his incredible talent."

Director of BBC Drama, Lindsay Salt, pays tribute to Bernard Hillhttps://t.co/z6J6QyqoGB pic.twitter.com/xUXHLoQeuv

— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) May 5, 2024